NDLEA nabs 420 suspects, seizes 1,000kg of drugs in Kaduna
In a decisive clampdown on drug-related crimes, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kaduna State Command announced the arrest of 420 suspects and the seizure of 1,045.93 kilograms of various illicit substances during the third quarter of 2024. The Kaduna State Commander, Samaila Danmalam, shared the update with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday.
According to Danmalam, the arrest tally includes 404 male suspects and 16 females, encompassing a mix of drug dealers, users, and traffickers. This milestone represents the agency’s ongoing commitment to tackling the proliferation of narcotics and psychotropic substances in the state.
“The command successfully apprehended a total of 420 suspects within this period, covering drug dealers, users, and traffickers. In addition, we have made significant seizures of various illicit substances,” Danmalam said.
The confiscated drugs include cocaine, cannabis sativa, rohypnol, tramadol, methamphetamine, and other psychotropic substances. The total weight of these seized substances stands at 1,045.93 kilograms, reflecting the extensive reach of the NDLEA’s operations in Kaduna.
Beyond drug seizures, the command also recorded significant success in recovering ammunition and arms, further highlighting the depth of the agency’s efforts. “In the course of our operations, we seized a total of 1,393 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and four locally made firearms,” Danmalam added, stressing the broader implications of the agency’s work in enhancing public safety.
The NDLEA’s efforts have not only been punitive but also rehabilitative. Danmalam noted that the agency had secured the conviction of 30 drug offenders and charged 54 suspects to court. Investigations are ongoing for others caught in the command’s net.
In addition to these kinetic measures, the NDLEA Kaduna Command has also ramped up its non-kinetic approach, focusing on drug demand reduction. “We have carried out several sensitization and awareness programs aimed at educating the public on the dangers of drug abuse,” said Danmalam. “During this period, the command counseled 50 drug users, and we successfully rehabilitated another 50 drug-dependent persons who have now been reintegrated into society.”
Danmalam reiterated the agency’s commitment to eradicating the drug menace and urged citizens to cooperate with the NDLEA by providing timely and useful information. “We remain dedicated to combating illicit drug trafficking and ensuring a safer community. Public support is essential, and we appeal for timely information that will allow us to respond quickly and take proactive measures,” he added.
The NDLEA’s continued efforts in Kaduna come at a time when drug abuse and trafficking remain critical concerns across Nigeria. With the support of law enforcement and the public, the agency remains steadfast in its mission to rid the state of illegal drugs and to ensure that those affected by substance abuse receive the help they need.
As the year progresses, the NDLEA’s Kaduna Command vows to intensify its operations and expand its rehabilitation programs, maintaining a balanced approach between law enforcement and public health intervention in its fight against drugs.
